No jokes here, but your short story reminds me of a story very near and dear to my heart.
My bro-in-law left the Marines / was forced out after 11 years due to a circulation issue in his legs. He finished his time in the Marine Reserve and the Army Reserve. On Christmas Day, 2003, he was wounded in Baquoba, Iraq by mortar fire. I believe he received a full medical retirement from this event and his combined service.
He deals with alot of pain, but is now his own boss, teaching CCW classes and training local PDs on weapons and tactics. He also works for/with the VA, advising and mentoring vets similiar to you and your situation. He does alot of stuff for/with the VFW. He is doing exactly what he wants to do, on his own time.
You have to watch closely to see any signs of pain, but it's there.
I am extremely jealous of his present situation, but he earned every minute of easy time. I'm not sure I'd personally trade his hardships for his present situation.
Look foward to what you can do. The past is done.